If you are considering getting an abortion after finding out you are unexpectedly pregnant, getting an ultrasound is an important next step before you make a decision.
A pregnancy test is not enough to confirm your pregnancy since it doesn’t give you the important medical information an ultrasound does.
Life Choices offers free pregnancy testing and limited obstetric ultrasounds so you can get the important information you need to consider your options.
Schedule your confidential appointment today. We are here to support you.
A Pregnancy Test Doesn’t Give the Full Picture
A pregnancy test works by detecting the hormone hCG in your urine or bloodstream. While this can indicate whether or not you could be pregnant, it doesn’t tell you how your pregnancy is progressing or its health.
For example, a pregnancy test doesn’t tell you how far along you are or where the pregnancy is located. These are two important details that can affect abortion options.
What an Ultrasound Can Tell You
An ultrasound uses sound waves to create an image of your pregnancy and how it is progressing.
The key details an ultrasound can confirm are:
- The location – In rare cases, pregnancies can grow outside of the uterus, which is called an ectopic pregnancy. Ectopic pregnancies can be life-threatening and need immediate medical attention.
- Gestational age – This tells you how far along your pregnancy is. The abortion pill can only be taken up to ten weeks of gestation according to the FDA.
- Development indicators – Miscarriages can happen early on, with 80% happening in the first trimester. An ultrasound scan is used to detect a heartbeat and confirm that the pregnancy is progressing normally.
Why an Ultrasound Matters Before Abortion
An ultrasound is essential before an abortion since it can identify medical conditions that need urgent medical attention, such as ectopic pregnancy. An ultrasound also tells you whether or not you can have a medical abortion, depending on how far along you are and if you may have already miscarried.
False positives can happen if you have miscarried recently, since hCG levels can still be elevated. Having accurate medical information beforehand can help you make a more informed decision and protect your health.
Get Support While You Consider Your Options
It’s normal to feel uncertain and overwhelmed if you’re facing an unexpected pregnancy. You deserve a safe place where you can ask questions, receive accurate information, and talk through your concerns without pressure or judgment.
Life Choices is here for you, offering no-cost confidential appointments, free pregnancy testing, limited ultrasounds, and information about your pregnancy options so you can make an informed decision at your own pace.
Our team is here to support you. You don’t have to go through this alone.
Contact us today to schedule your appointment.